Alan Iturriaga of Veracruz, Mexico came to King’s thinking he was destined for a career in journalism. But, once here, he discovered another path—and is now graduating with a combined honours in the history of science and technology and philosophy.
What drew you to King’s originally?
I originally came for FYP and the journalism program, as I wanted to do a combined degree in philosophy and journalism.
What program are you graduating from, and what inspired you to pursue that program?
It turns out I was not cut out to be a journalist, but I stuck with philosophy. It happened to be that King’s offered the HSTC (History of Science and Technology) degree and I had always been interested in history and science. So, I gave it a try and loved it!
Was there a course, professor, reading requirement or experience that has had a lasting impact on you?
The entire HSTC faculty is stellar and supremely generous with their time. I had a chance to get to know Dr. Gordon McOuat, Dr. Mélanie Frappier and Dr. Stephen Snobelen best. Dr. Frappier’s class on thought experiments and Dr. Snobelen’s class on science and religion were particular highlights for me, as they allowed me to explore the intersection between history and philosophy of science.
What item got the most use during your degree?
I always have my earbuds in. Which, to be fair, is probably not healthy. But I don’t know what I would have done without them.
Do you do your best work at night or in the morning?
I want to say that I work best at night, but that is probably only because I never wake up early enough to do work in the morning. Maybe I should try it.
If you could relive one day from your time at King’s, what day would it be and why?
I would want to relive my thesis defence! It was a really fun experience, and I felt really proud afterwards. Also, because there is so much more I would have wanted to say that I only thought about after the fact.
What’s one thing from your time at King’s that you’re especially proud of?
I am proud that I was involved in so many things that were not necessarily related to my degree. Working as a section editor at The Watch and as a photographer in different campus events was really fulfilling—KTS plays were my favourite projects to shoot!
Thinking back to who you were when you received your acceptance letter, what would you tell him?
I would tell myself not to stress out too much (and to not procrastinate!). Otherwise, that it is probably a good idea to check that I have my keys and King’s card with me when I leave my room—I got locked out of Cochran Bay so many times in my first year that I stopped counting.
As Encaenia approaches, do you have any insights you’d like to share for incoming students?
It is not a good idea to put things off. Triple A has a frequent-customer card if you are eating pizza there often. Professors are very kind and will answer your emails. The best Mexican food in Halifax is Tako Loko on Isleville St. If you are an honours student, you have to get a B- (not just a pass) for the class to count towards your degree. Make sure to visit Point Pleasant Park sometime.
Where do you hope your degree takes you next?
I hope my degree leads me to more degrees and, eventually, to a job in academia. I will be happy if I spend the rest of my life in or around a university.
